Barry Ferguson makes bold Rangers prediction v Red Star
Barry Ferguson has predicted Rangers to progress through to the quarter-finals of the Europa League.
The Gers will face Red Star Belgrade in the Europa League on Thursday (10 March). Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s side will play the second leg away from home.
Ferguson has suggested that the away trip to Serbia can be “hostile”, and that it would be a great occasion.
The Ibrox legend said to Go Radio, as relayed by Scottish Daily Express: “I honestly believe Rangers have a chance – I think Rangers will go into the quarter-finals.”
He added about the atmosphere the Gers could witness in Serbia: “It’s hostile but it’s not the worst I’ve been in to be honest with you.
“There’s a long, dark tunnel and obviously you’ve got the guards at the side that are standing with the riot gear on.
“It’s typical when you go away in Europe there’s flares going off and singing the full game but I enjoy the atmospheres.
“It’ll be a great occasion. The Rangers players have got to look forward to it.”
Crunch tie
It will be a fascinating contest between the two sides.
Red Star are in top form in their domestic league, and they will be in full confidence.
The Gers haven’t been scoring freely in the SPFL, but they have done well to pick up maximum points and they are in good shape as well.
The key here is momentum. Rangers will feel confident that they can beat any side in the world after their 6-4 aggregate win over Borussia Dortmund in their previous game.
However, this tie brings forth a different challenge, which Rangers may find difficult, considering the current side’s lack of European experience.
When you’re playing the second leg at home, the mentality changes. Even if you’re trailing from the first leg, you have got the confidence that you can pull it off at home.
Rangers have to make sure they start the game well and take a healthy lead moving into the second leg. It also means, they have to stay solid at the back and not allow their visitors to score freely.
In other Rangers news, van Bronckhorst has confirmed that one of his star signings will be on the bench for tomorrow’s Europa League tie against Red Star Belgrade.